Congress Rejects Alliance with AIMIM, Warns of Polarisation

Uttar Pradesh Congress working president Imran Masood has ruled out a partnership between the INDIA bloc and Asaduddin Owaisi’s All India Majlis‑ul‑Wahhabis (AIMIM). In a post on X, Masood said that any electoral tie‑up would be decided by Congress leadership, but the two sides have fundamentally different political positions.

Masood criticised Owaisi’s rhetoric, particularly the “80:20 formula” he has promoted. He warned that targeting one community and calling for its consolidation could prompt the other community to unite in response, thereby deepening divisions. “Everyone understands who will suffer the consequences,” Masood added, suggesting that such polarisation could ultimately benefit the BJP.

He further cautioned that the people Owaisi claims to represent might bear the brunt if a BJP government comes to power. “Why are you opening the way for them to be beaten? Instead, talk about protecting them,” Masood said.

Uttar Pradesh is scheduled for assembly elections in 2027, with polling expected in February–March, though the Election Commission has not yet released the official timetable. The current 403‑member assembly, formed in May 2022, will finish its five‑year term on 22 May 2027. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will seek a second consecutive term, while the Samajwadi Party, Congress and other opposition parties are expected to challenge the ruling alliance.